Where did this year go? Cannot actually believe that we’ve reached December. Maybe also because there’s no Christmas reminders here, there and everywhere… haven’t heard a festive song yet and the only reminders of the time of year are the steady stream of Xmas films on Netflix and the fact that I got to open my first Advent present this morning. Thanks mum! 😘
In fact, I have found it quite peaceful and at times a relief to be somewhat isolated here in the bush, hiding away from the UK general election palava, the never-ending Christmas hype and the frustration of yet another terrorist incident in London. However, it’s tough being here when there’s sad news from home and there’s been a fair share of that in the past few weeks unfortunately. That’s when I can feel a little alone and start doubting my decisions and life choices.
But then something amazing or encouraging happens to remind me that I’m doing the right thing. Yesterday was such a moment… a chef and a waiter here, that I am not doing training with, pulled me aside asking very intently to become my students next year because they can see I am a good teacher and a good person… bless!
And I know now that I will be back at Singita next year. As soon as February even. I’m so happy that the management here think I can continue to add value as part of their succession development plan. And I feel fortunate for all the people I am able to connect with and build relationships with as part of this job as well. This year would have been a very different story without this opportunity… am so lucky!
In addition to the 2x two month contracts at Singita, I have put forward a couple of other proposals for 2020. Please keep your fingers crossed that they both come through for me… have a 2019 loss that I need to recover – haha!
Oh and still no news on the business registration in Zanzibar. My lawyer is not really prioritising me it seems, but will try to get a meeting with him when I get to ZNZ in December. Cannot wait for a few days there actually… a bit of beach time, restaurant visits and quality time with Carelynn, who will join me there. Joy!
Finally, just remembering that it’s World AIDS day today. Still such a taboo subject to talk about here in East Africa… and even though the numbers of people living with HIV here in Tanzania are going down, 5% of the population still live with it, and more than double the new HIV cases in 2018 were found in young women! Condoms are not widely used in young people it seems and when I speak to people about it, they are more concerned about pregnancies than diseases. Still a lot of education and awareness needed on this! Sorry, didn’t actually mean to end this post on such a sad note, but it’s the reality of life here and something I think is worth highlighting…
BETINA IN AFRICA 